How to Block Websites on Windows & Mac

How to Block Websites on Windows & Mac

Controlling and managing access to certain websites is a priority for many individuals, families, and organizations. Whether you're a parent trying to protect your child from inappropriate content, a business owner maintaining productivity among employees, or simply a user wanting to limit distractions, learning how to block websites effectively is essential.

This comprehensive guide explains how to block websites on both Windows and Mac systems using several methods—ranging from system-level settings to third-party software. Each method has its advantages, and we'll walk through each step to help you choose the best solution for your needs.

Why You Might Need to Block Websites

Before diving into the methods, it’s important to understand why blocking websites may be necessary:

• Parental Control: Prevent children from accessing harmful or adult content.

• Workplace Productivity: Reduce access to time-wasting sites such as social media or gaming platforms.

• Personal Focus: Eliminate distractions during work or study sessions.

• Security Concerns: Block known malicious or phishing sites to prevent data breaches or malware attacks.

Now, let’s explore the most reliable and updated methods for blocking websites on both Windows and Mac in 2025.

How to Block Websites on Windows (Windows 10 & Windows 11)

1. Using the Hosts File (System-Level Method)

The hosts file is a system file that maps hostnames to IP addresses. By redirecting a website to a non-routable address like 127.0.0.1, you can block it on your computer.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S, type “Notepad”, right-click and select Run as administrator.

2. In Notepad, go to File > Open, and navigate to:

   C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\
   

3. Select All Files from the drop-down, then open the file named hosts.

4. Scroll to the bottom and add:

   127.0.0.1    www.blockedwebsite.com
   

   Repeat for each website you want to block.

5. Save the file and restart your computer.

Note: This method blocks the website for all browsers and users, but tech-savvy users can bypass it.

2. Using Windows Family Safety (Microsoft Family Group)

This is a cloud-based method best for parental control.

Steps:

1. Visit https://account.microsoft.com/family/ and sign in with your Microsoft account.

2. Add a child account to your family group.

3. Click on the child’s profile > Content Filters > Web and Search.

4. Turn on Filter Inappropriate Websites and add specific websites to block.

This applies across devices the child uses and provides activity reports.

3. Using Third-Party Software (For More Control)

Several powerful tools are available for web blocking on Windows:

• Cold Turkey: Blocks websites, apps, and even sets timers.

• Freedom: Blocks distractions across devices.

• Net Nanny: Offers robust parental controls and content filtering.

These tools usually come with scheduling options, password protection, and detailed reports.

4. Using Browser Extensions

Browser-based solutions can work well but are easier to disable.

Chrome Example:

• Go to the Chrome Web Store.

• Search for “BlockSite” or “StayFocusd”.

• Install and configure the extension to block desired sites.

Keep in mind: Browser extensions can be disabled by users unless restricted by admin tools.

How to Block Websites on Mac (macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and Newer)

1. Using Screen Time (Built-in macOS Feature)

macOS provides an integrated and reliable method through Screen Time, introduced in macOS Catalina and improved in newer versions like Ventura and Sonoma.

Steps:

1. Open System Settings.

2. Click on Screen Time.

3. Choose the user account you want to apply restrictions to.

4. Go to Content & Privacy > Content Restrictions.

5. Enable restrictions and click Customize.

6. Add websites to the Restricted Websites list.

You can set this up for a child’s account or restrict your own usage. Admin access is needed to make changes.

2. Using Terminal to Edit Hosts File

This is similar to Windows and affects the entire system.

Steps:

1. Open Terminal.

2. Type:

   sudo nano /etc/hosts
   

3. Enter your password when prompted.

4. Add the following lines at the end:

   127.0.0.1    www.blockedwebsite.com
   

5. Press Control + O to save, then Control + X to exit.

6. Flush the DNS cache:

   sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder
   

This method is effective system-wide and doesn't depend on browser settings.

3. Using Parental Control Apps

These third-party apps offer robust and advanced features for Mac users:

• Qustodio: Great for parental controls and activity monitoring.

• Freedom: Blocks websites and apps across Mac, iOS, and other platforms.

• Focus: Designed specifically for Mac users who want distraction-free workflows.

These tools often include scheduling, password protection, and cloud management.

4. Using Browser-Specific Extensions

Safari:

• Safari has limited extension support for blocking. Use 1Focus or FocusMe for better system-wide control.

Chrome/Firefox:

• Extensions like BlockSite or LeechBlock NG are popular.

• They offer scheduling, password protection, and syncing across browsers.

However, these extensions are easier to bypass compared to system-level changes.

How to Block Websites on Both Windows and Mac Using a Router

If you want to block websites across all devices (PC, Mac, smartphones) on your home network, setting rules at the router level is the most effective.

Steps:

1. Open your browser and enter your router’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1).

2. Log in using admin credentials.

3. Look for Parental Controls, Access Restrictions, or Firewall Settings.

4. Enter the URLs you want to block.

5. Save settings and reboot your router.

Pros:

• Affects all devices using the network.

• Centralized management.

Cons:

• Can be bypassed with VPNs.

• Requires technical access to the router.

Bonus Tip: Use Open DNS or Clean Browsing DNS

You can use DNS-based web filtering for a broader level of control:

How to Set Up OpenDNS:

1. Go to https://www.opendns.com/home-internet-security/.

2. Sign up and configure your router or device DNS settings to:

   208.67.222.222
   208.67.220.220
   

3. Create a free OpenDNS Home account and configure filtering options.

This solution works across platforms and protects every device on the network.

Final Thoughts

Blocking websites on Windows and Mac is easier than ever in 2025, thanks to integrated system features, powerful apps, and network-level solutions. The method you choose depends on your goals—whether you’re setting up parental controls, managing productivity, or preventing security risks.

To summarize:

Stay in control of your digital environment and tailor your internet access according to your personal or professional needs.

Tweet